As many of you know, there is a huge farmer's strike taking place in Argentina right now. As best I can gather, the problem began when the government raised export taxes on beef and grain, two major staples of Argentina's economy. They also began devoting increasing amounts of land to soy production--soy is one of Argentina's most profitable crops. The government claimed these measures were necessary to combat rapid inflation and other warning signs that were eerily reminiscent of those that preceded the 2001 economic collapse.
On Day 7, as the boys waited for their bus at the hotel, thousands of protesters marched from El Obelisco to the Plaza de Mayo, passing directly in front of the hotel. They banged pots and pans and chanted slogans in support of the farmers, in support of preservation of the land, and in support of unity. As the players stood and took in the scene, many of the protesters waved and cheered, encouraging the Americnas to make noise in support of their cause. One woman even gave them a copy of a poem she had composed.
On Day 8, the team boarded a double-decker bus and departed for Rosario, a city four hours north of Buenos Aires, along the Rio de la Plata. The question on everyone's mind was, would the striking farmers lengthen the trip, or prevent it altogether? They were blocking many major roads near Rosario, a city of one million people near the heart of Argentina's farmlands.
But in the end, there were no blockades and no flying pitchforks. After a quick 3.5 hour drive, the boys arrived safe and sound to Rosario, and checked into the hotel.
Andele!
